Are you planning a trip to Portugal from Madrid and wondering whether you can take a train? Well, the answer is yes, you can take a train from Madrid to Portugal. However, there are several things you need to know before booking your tickets.
What is the Route?
The train route from Madrid to Portugal is served by the Spanish national railway company RENFE and the Portuguese national railway company CP. The journey typically starts at Madrid Chamartin station and terminates at Lisbon Santa Apolonia station. The total distance covered is approximately 630km, and the journey takes around 10 hours.
What are the Train Options?
There are two types of trains that operate on this route – Intercity trains and Night trains.
1. Intercity Trains: These trains run during the day and offer comfortable seating with air conditioning. They also have food services on board, which serve snacks, drinks, and light meals.
2. Night Trains: These trains run overnight between Madrid and Lisbon.
They usually have sleeping cabins with bunk beds that can accommodate up to six passengers. The cabins have washbasins, toilets, and showers for passenger convenience.
What is the Cost of Train Tickets?
The cost of train tickets varies depending on several factors such as travel class, time of travel, type of train, and how far in advance you book your ticket. Generally speaking, Intercity trains are cheaper than Night trains as they don’t offer sleeping cabins.
You can expect to pay anywhere between €30-€100 for a one-way ticket depending on these factors mentioned above.
How Can You Book Train Tickets?
You can book your train tickets online through various platforms such as RENFE’s official website or third-party websites like Omio or Trainline. It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to avoid the last-minute rush and secure the best deals.
What Should You Know Before Boarding the Train?
Before boarding the train, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
1. Passport and Visa: Make sure you have a valid passport and visa (if required) before boarding the train.
2. Luggage: Make sure you pack light as there are luggage restrictions on trains, and you might have to carry your luggage up and down stairs to reach your cabin or seat.
3. Food and Drinks: If you’re traveling on an Intercity train, there will be food services on board. However, if you’re on a Night train, it’s advisable to carry some snacks and drinks with you as food services might not be available all night.
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking a train from Madrid to Portugal is an excellent way to travel between these two countries. With comfortable seating or sleeping cabins, air conditioning, food services, and convenient online booking options, it’s a hassle-free experience. However, make sure you keep in mind the points mentioned above before boarding the train to enjoy a smooth journey.